RUSO Names New NWOSU President

May 16, 2022

The release below is from the Regional University System of Oklahoma.

The Regional University System of Oklahoma is honored to announce Dr. Bo Hannaford as the 20th president of Northwestern Oklahoma State University. Northwestern President Janet Cunningham will retire June 30, 2022.

Currently serving as the executive vice president, Dr. Hannaford has served in leadership positions within the university since 2011.

“Dr. Hannaford’s deep knowledge of Northwestern’s strengths positions him well to continue his work optimizing the university’s programs at its campuses in Alva, Enid and Woodward,” said Connie Reilly, chair of the Regional University System’s board of regents.  “His academic insights enable him to connect with students, parents and adult learners about the value of NWOSU’s degrees and current and future workforce needs of Oklahoma.”

“I am honored to lead Northwestern into the next chapter and for the opportunity to build on the legacy of President Cunningham,” Hannaford said. “She has been an impactful leader and has ensured that the university is successful.”

Dr. Hannaford has served as Northwestern’s chair of the education division, dean of the School of Professional Studies and vice president for Academic Affairs, prior to being named executive vice president in 2019. His career began in public schools, and he served as a high school principal for Ponca City Public Schools prior to returning to Northwestern.  He earned his Doctorate in Education from Walden University and both his undergraduate and master’s degrees are from Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

“I want to thank our Board of Regents for this opportunity,” said Dr. Hannaford.  “I am humbled and grateful to lead this institution that I love so much.  I look forward to continuing to work with our Ranger family in achieving our goals and preparing outstanding graduates for the future.”

Northwestern Oklahoma State University is a public regional university that has received national acclaim for its combination of high-quality academic programs and affordability. Northwestern’s mission is to provide quality educational and cultural opportunities to learners with diverse needs by cultivating ethical leadership and service, critical thinking and fiscal responsibility. For more information, please visit www.nwosu.edu.

For more information about RUSO visit www.ruso.edu. 

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